If you ever sat down for an episode of “Dawson’s Creek” back in the day, you’re surely familiar with the writing style of North Carolina-born screenwriter Kevin Williamson. Today, Williamson continues working on television and film projects set within his home state, including the newly released Netflix series “The Waterfront.” For those who don’t know, “The Waterfront” centers on the Buckley family, as they struggle to keep their fishing business afloat in a fictional coastal town.
In reality, this town is Wilmington, North Carolina, which frequently tops the list of best beach towns on the entire East Coast. “The Waterfront” is one of many new projects to film in and around the up-and-coming area, which has increasingly enjoyed the spotlight in recent years. Those looking to visit the gorgeous and historic locale may be interested in reading ahead, as we outline a few key filming locations for “The Waterfront,” as well as a brief guide to the best hotels, restaurants, and beaches.
Explore Wilmington Like The Buckley Clan
Key Scenes: True to its title, most of the key scenes in “The Waterfront” take place on or near the Atlantic Ocean. Key filming locations in Wilmington, North Carolina, include the Suites on Market Motel, the Cotton Exchange shopping center on the riverfront, the Little Drum Landing event hosting space and portions of the city’s historic district on Cape Fear, per Us Weekly. Other notable sequences in the show include those shot in Southport’s Fishy Fish Cafe, which stands in for a fictional restaurant in the narrative. Those familiar with Wilmington and the surrounding cities should have no trouble spotting some of the area’s most notable landmarks in the background of “The Waterfront,” as the Buckley family swim, slide and swing their way into trouble.
Best Time to Visit: Wilmington, North Carolina is a beautiful and vibrant area worth checking out any time of year. Still, it’s regarded as a major beach town, making it ideal for those who enjoy the sun and surf in the summertime. The dog days of summer can get quite hot and humid, however, so first-time visitors are encouraged to check out the area during the months of May or September, when the weather is nice but not overwhelming. Outdoor activities should also be plentiful around this time, as tourism floods the boardwalks, beaches and historic centers…